JP3690102B2 - Image processing apparatus and image processing method - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus that generates and outputs image data representing a combined image obtained by combining a plurality of input images.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, devices having a function of outputting image data for a plurality of pages on the same surface of a recording sheet have been developed and marketed. Hereinafter, a conventional apparatus that realizes this type of function will be described. Here, for convenience of explanation, an operation mode for outputting image data for two pages on the same side of a recording sheet is set as a 2-up mode and a 4-page operation. The operation mode for outputting image data is a 4-up mode, the operation mode for outputting image data for N pages is an N-up mode, and an apparatus that enables operation in the most common 2-up mode is described as an example. To do. Note that the image data output on the same surface of the recording paper may be the same or different from each other.
[0003]
As a conventional apparatus that enables operation in the 2-up mode, there is an apparatus that decompresses the input compressed image data for two pages and expands it on a memory inside the apparatus, and then outputs a composite image. . However, in this case, there is a problem that the manufacturing cost of the apparatus increases because a memory having a sufficient capacity to store the decompressed image data for two pages is necessary. Note that compression / decompression of image data reduces the storage capacity (actually the storage capacity of the hard disk drive) required for the device to which the device is applied to temporarily store the image data. It is to do.
[0004]
In order to solve the above problem, an image recording apparatus described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-244388 has been proposed. This image recording apparatus forms a composite image on recording paper by continuously expanding and outputting the input compressed image data for two pages in the sub-scanning direction on the recording paper of one page. According to this image recording apparatus, it is possible to form a composite image on a recording sheet without performing expansion and composition of the input compressed image data for two pages on a memory inside the apparatus.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
As described above, in the image recording apparatus described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-244388, in the 2-up mode in which image data for two pages is combined and output on a recording sheet, the input compressed image data for two pages is As shown in FIG. 13C, the direction in which an image is formed on the recording sheet coincides with the long side direction of the recording sheet.
[0006]
Therefore, when the image recording apparatus is applied to, for example, a copying machine, as shown in FIG. 13A, if the short side direction of the document coincides with the sub-scanning direction, the input image data is rotated. However, when the long side direction of the document matches the sub-scanning direction as shown in FIG. 13B, the input image data is 90 degrees. Alternatively, the result shown in FIG. 13C cannot be obtained unless the rotation process of 270 degrees is performed. That is, in an environment in which the sub-scanning direction of the document can be the long side direction, it is necessary to provide a rotating means for rotating the image data, leading to an increase in manufacturing cost. Further, even if rotation means is provided to enable image data rotation processing, there is a problem that the processing speed of the entire apparatus is reduced by the time required for the rotation processing.
[0007]
Furthermore, if the image recording apparatus is adapted to a 4-up mode mode in which image data for four pages is combined and output on recording paper, there is a problem that the manufacturing cost of the entire apparatus increases. In the 4-up mode, for example, as shown in FIG. 14, a total of four pages of image data for two pages in the sub-scanning direction on the recording paper and two pages in the main scanning direction are output to one page of the recording paper. However, as shown in the timing chart of FIG. 15, at least a memory for decompressing and synthesizing image data for two pages arranged in the main scanning direction is required, which reduces the manufacturing cost of the entire apparatus. It will increase. In addition, even if a memory for expanding and synthesizing image data for two pages arranged in the main scanning direction is provided, the processing speed of the entire apparatus is reduced by the time required for writing / reading the memory even if it is compatible with the 4-up mode. There is a problem that.
[0008]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and includes a plurality of input images that are input in an arbitrary direction without including a memory for developing image data and a rotation unit that performs rotation processing on the image data. An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus capable of generating and outputting image data representing a combined image obtained by combining the images.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to solve the above-described problems, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention is an image processing apparatus that outputs image data representing a composite image obtained by combining a plurality of input images in accordance with a pre-set combination condition. Compressed image data input means for inputting a plurality of compressed image data representing the input image, decompression means for decompressing and outputting the target compressed image data, and each time a predetermined amount of image data is decompressed by the decompression means, The decompression control means for selecting the target compressed image data from the plurality of compressed image data input by the compressed image data input means based on the synthesis condition, and the image data output from the decompression means are sequentially output. Output means forThe decompression means includes a plurality of decompressors that decompress the compressed image data compressed by a plurality of compression methods, and decompresses the target compressed image data by an decompressor corresponding to the target compressed image data.It is characterized by that. According to this configuration,The compressed image data is decompressed by the decompressor corresponding to the compressed image data among the plurality of decompressors,The compressed image data decompressed by the decompression means is switched according to the synthesis condition every time a predetermined amount of image data is decompressed. Therefore,Each compressed image data compressed by a different compression method is decompressed by an appropriate decompressor,Image data output from the output means is image data representing a composite image.
[0010]
Further, in the above configuration, the decompression control unit may select the target compressed image data based on the number of image data output from the decompression unit. In this case, the decompression unit decompresses the target compressed image data. The above switching is performed based on the number of pieces of image data that have been performed. Alternatively, the decompression control unit may select the target compressed image data based on the number of compressed image data input to the decompression unit. In this case, the decompression is decompressed by the decompression unit. The above switching is performed based on the number of image data. Alternatively, the plurality of compressed image data input by the compressed image data input unit includes predetermined identification data, and the expansion control unit is based on identification data in the compressed image data input to the expansion unit. The target compressed image data may be selected. In this case, the switching is performed based on the identification data in the compressed image data decompressed by the decompressing means.
[0011]
In each of the above-described configurations, the target compressed image data selected by the decompression control unit may be formed by compressing image data for a predetermined line of the corresponding input image. In this case, the compressed image data decompressed by the decompressing means is switched in units of a predetermined line of the corresponding input image. Alternatively, the target compressed image data selected by the decompression control means may be obtained by compressing image data for a predetermined block of the corresponding input image. In this case, the compressed image data decompressed by the decompressing means is switched in units of a predetermined block of the corresponding input image.
[0012]
  Furthermore, in each of the above configurations,PreviousThe output means may include a buffer for temporarily storing the decompressed image data decompressed by the decompressing means, and the image data stored in the buffer may be output for each line of the composite image. In this case, the image data output from the output means is output for each line of the composite image. Therefore, for example, even when the compressed image data is expanded in units of blocks, the image data output from the output unit is image data representing a composite image.
[0013]
  According to another configuration, there is provided an image processing apparatus that outputs image data representing a composite image obtained by combining a plurality of input images in accordance with a preset composite condition, and a plurality of compressed images representing the plurality of input images An input means for inputting data, an expansion means for expanding the plurality of compressed image data input by the input means independently of each other, and a plurality of decompression results by the expansion means are selectively used as image data representing the composite image Output means for outputting to the output means, and selection means for determining the decompression result output by the output means based on the synthesis condition each time the decompression result output by the output means is output for the corresponding line of the input image It is characterized by comprising. According to this configuration, the image data output by the output unit is switched according to the synthesis condition every time a predetermined amount of image data is output. Therefore, the image data output from the output means is image data representing a composite image.In addition, an image processing method according to another aspect of the present invention is a method of combining a plurality of input images in an image processing apparatus having a plurality of decompressors that decompress compressed image data compressed by a plurality of compression methods. An image processing method for outputting image data representing a synthesized image synthesized according to a condition, wherein the image processing apparatus receives a plurality of compressed image data representing the plurality of input images, and the first step A second step in which the image processing device decompresses and outputs target compressed image data sequentially selected based on the synthesis condition from the plurality of compressed image data received in the step, and the second step In the step, the image processing apparatus switches the selection of the target compressed image data based on the synthesis condition every time a predetermined amount of image data is expanded, and the plurality of expansion images. Of vessel it is characterized by extending the target compressed image data by decompressor in accordance with the target compressed image data selected.
[0014]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the description of each embodiment, the recording medium on which the composite image data is recorded is used as the recording paper in order to facilitate understanding, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this.
[0015]
1: First embodiment
1-1: Configuration
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment includes code FIFOs 101 and 102, The input unit 103, the decompression unit 104, the data output unit 105, and the decompression control unit 106 are configured. The FIFO means a first-in fast-out (FIFO) buffer, and the same applies to other embodiments.
[0016]
In FIG. 1, code FIFOs 101 and 102 each represent a speed at which the image processing apparatus reads compressed image data for one page of an original from an external storage device (for example, a hard disk), and an input speed of compressed image data in the code input unit 103. Adjust the speed difference. The code input unit 103 selects either compressed image data from the code FIFO 101 or compressed image data from the code FIFO 102 based on the compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106, and selects the selected compressed image. Data is input and output to the decompression unit 104. The decompression unit 104 decompresses the compressed image data input from the code input unit 103 to generate decompressed image data, and outputs this to the data output unit 105. The data output unit 105 sequentially outputs the decompressed image data input from the decompressing unit 104 for each line of the composite image.
[0017]
The decompression control unit 106 counts the number of decompressed image data input from the decompressing unit 104 (matches the number of pixels in the case of a black and white image), and the count value and the number of image data set in an internal register in advance. (The number of image data per line in the document, the value is M), and if they match, the document selection order information (indicating the input order of the document, preset in the internal register, In this embodiment, the code input unit 103 generates a compressed image data selection signal so that the compressed image data of the next document is selected based on the first page of the document and the second page of the document). This is output to the code input unit 103.
[0018]
1-2: Operation
FIG. 2 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the image processing apparatus having the above-described configuration. Hereinafter, the operation of the image processing apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. In the following description, as shown in FIG. 3, the image processing apparatus synthesizes image data for two pages of a document composed of M pixels × N lines, and on one page of recording paper composed of 2M pixels × N lines. It is assumed that image data is generated. Further, these originals are stored in an external storage device in a form compressed by an MH (Modified Huffman) compression algorithm, which is a typical compression algorithm for compressing an input image line by line. It is assumed that the read compressed image data is input to the code input unit 103 without interruption. Further, the decompression control unit 106 controls the output of compressed image data from the code input unit 103 to the decompression unit 104 in response to a request for inputting compressed image data from the decompression unit 104.
[0019]
First, the code input unit 103 that operates based on a compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106 selects the compressed image data “Code 1” -1 of the first line of the first page of the document, This is input to the decompression unit 104. The decompression unit 104 performs decompression using the MH algorithm, and the decompression results are sequentially output to the data output unit 105. When all the decompressed image data “Data (1) -1” for the first line of the first page of the document is output from the decompression unit 104, the compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106 is switched. The code input unit 103 that operates operates to select the compressed image data “Code 2 −1” on the first line of the second page of the document, and the compressed image data is input to the decompression unit 104. When all the decompressed image data “Data 2 −1” for the first line of the second page of the document are output, the compressed image data “Code 2 ▼ -2” of the second line of the first page of the document is then output. Is selected. With the processing described above, the output of the decompressed image data for the first line for two pages of the document is completed, and the image data for the first line of the composite image is recorded on the recording paper.
Thereafter, the same processing as described above is repeated from the second line to the Nth line of the document, and finally, a composite image of 2M pixels × N lines is formed on the recording paper.
[0020]
In the first embodiment, the decompression control unit 106 controls input of compressed image data from the code input unit 103 to the decompression unit 104 in response to a request for input of compressed image data from the decompression unit 104. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the compressed image data may be input to the decompression unit 104 at a predetermined timing. Therefore, in other embodiments, control of input of compressed image data to the decompression unit 104 is not particularly refused.
[0021]
The compressed image data is compressed line by line by the MH compression algorithm. However, the compressed image data is not limited to this, but is compressed by a compression algorithm such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) that compresses the input image in units of blocks. What was compressed for every block may be used, and what was compressed with the other compression algorithm may be used. Further, the case where two original pages are continuously expanded and combined in the main scanning direction on the recording paper has been described. However, it is also possible to continuously extend and combine the two pages in the sub-scanning direction on the recording paper. You can easily combine more than a page. Further, although the number of pixels (M) in the main scanning direction of each input document is the same, it goes without saying that pixels having different numbers may be used.
[0022]
Here, an example of a composition process of three pages or more is given.
FIG. 4 is a timing chart for explaining the operation in the 4-up mode of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. Hereinafter, the operation in the 4-up mode will be described with reference to FIG.
In the 4-up mode, the compressed image data of the second page of the document and the fourth page of the document among the compressed image data for the four pages of the document written in the external storage device are first expanded alternately for each line. The obtained decompressed image data is output. When all the decompressed image data of the second page of the original and the fourth page of the original are output from the data output unit 105, a composite image of the second page of the original and the fourth page of the original is formed on the recording paper. become. Then, after reading out all the compressed image data of the second page and the fourth page of the document, the compressed image data of the first page of the document and the third page of the document are alternately expanded for each line. The decompressed image data is output. When all the decompressed image data of the first page and the third page of the document are output from the data output unit 105, the synthesized images of the first to fourth pages of the document are formed on the recording paper.
That is, in the conventional technique, it is necessary to provide a memory for decompressing compressed image data for at least two pages of the document. However, in the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment, the memory 4 is not provided. Up mode can be realized. Of course, not only the 4-up mode, but also an N-up mode in which an original with an arbitrary number of pages in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction on the recording paper can be realized. Moreover, even in the case shown in FIG. 13B, a composite image can be obtained without performing the rotation process.
[0023]
2: Second embodiment
2-1: Configuration
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the second and third embodiments of the present invention. In this figure, parts common to those in FIG. Is omitted. However, since the decompression control unit 106 and the data output unit 105 in the second embodiment have different functions from the decompression control unit 106 and the data output unit 105 in the first embodiment, these functions will be described below.
[0024]
The decompression control unit 106 according to the second embodiment counts the number of compressed image data input to the decompression unit 104, and also counts the count value and the number K of compressed image data preset in an internal register (in the document). The number of compressed image data per block line), and if they match, based on the document selection order information preset in the internal register, the code input unit 103 uses the compressed image data of the next document. A compressed image data selection signal is generated so as to be selected and output to the code input unit 103. Further, the data output unit 105 in the second embodiment includes only two sets of block buffers capable of storing decompressed image data for L lines of the document, and is output from the decompressing unit 104 as shown in FIG. The expanded image data in units of blocks each consisting of L pixels × L lines is written into the block buffer, and the expanded image data is read out in units of lines from the block buffer and output as shown in FIG. 6B. The data output unit 105 enables continuous data output by alternately switching writing / reading of the two sets of block buffers for each block line.
[0025]
2-2: Operation
FIG. 7 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the image processing apparatus having the above-described configuration. Hereinafter, the operation of the image processing apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. In the following description, it is assumed that the image processing apparatus has the same premise as the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the image processing apparatus synthesizes image data for two pages of a document composed of M pixels × N lines, and generates image data on one page of recording paper composed of 2M pixels × N lines. It shall be.
[0026]
These originals are compressed into block units of L × L by a JPEG-compliant compression algorithm that compresses input images in block units, and are independently compressed as different image data for each block line. . That is, in JPEG, each block in one page is compressed in association with each other, but here, a compression algorithm is adopted in which the above association is completed in each block line.
[0027]
The compressed image data compressed in units of block lines is externally added with dummy data (data that does not affect the expansion result) so that the number of compressed image data in each block line is equal. The compressed image data read out from the storage device is input to the code input unit 103 without interruption. Further, it is assumed that the document selection order information and the number of compressed image data for each block line of the input document are stored in advance in a register in the expansion control unit 106.
[0028]
First, the code input unit 103 that operates based on a compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106 selects the compressed image data “Code 1” -1 of the first block line of the first page of the document. This is input to the decompression unit 104. In the decompression unit 104, decompression is performed in units of blocks using an algorithm compliant with JPEG, and the decompression results are sequentially written into one block buffer in the data output unit 105 as shown in FIG.
[0029]
When all the compressed image data of the first block line of the first page of the document is input to the decompression unit 104, the compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106 is switched, and the code input unit 103 that operates based on this signal is switched. Then, the compressed image data “Code 2 −1” of the first block line of the second page of the document is selected, and the compressed image data is input to the decompression unit 104. In the decompression unit 104, decompression processing similar to that for the first block line of the first page of the document is performed. As shown in FIG. 6A, decompressed image data “Data (2) -1” is in units of blocks. The data is sequentially written into one block buffer in the data output unit 105.
[0030]
When all the decompressed image data of the first block line of the first page of the document and the second page of the document are written in one block buffer in the data output unit 105, the data output unit 105 switches between reading and writing of the block buffer, As shown in FIG. 6B, the decompressed image data “Data1” is read out from one block buffer in units of lines, and these are output in order. At this time, decompressed image data for the second block line of the first page of the original and the second page of the original is written in the other block buffer.
By the above-described processing, the output of the decompressed image data from the first line to the Lth line for two pages of the document is completed, and a composite image for L lines is formed on the recording paper. Thereafter, the same processing as described above is repeated from the L + 1 line to the N line of the document, and finally, a composite image of 2M pixels × N lines is formed on the recording paper.
[0031]
In the second embodiment, the decompression unit 104 outputs decompressed image data in units of blocks. However, the decompression unit 104 includes a block buffer and outputs decompressed image data in units of lines. Also good. The compressed image data is compressed in units of blocks by a JPEG-compliant compression algorithm. However, the compressed image data is not limited to this and may be compressed for each line by a compression algorithm such as MH. In this case, needless to say, the block buffer in the data output unit 105 is not necessary. Moreover, you may use what was compressed with the other compression algorithm.
[0032]
In addition, dummy data is added to each compressed image data so that the number of data is equal, but when the number of data of each compressed image data is equal, such as compressed image data encoded with equal length, There is no need to add dummy data. In addition, even for compressed image data that has not been encoded with an equal length, the number of compressed image data for each input block line is set in advance in the decompression control unit 106, or compressed image data is input. If the corresponding number of data is set in the decompression control unit according to the above, it is not necessary to add dummy data.
[0033]
In the second embodiment, a case has been described in which two pages of a document are continuously expanded and combined in the main scanning direction on the recording paper. However, as in the first embodiment, combining and continuous expansion in the sub-scanning direction are performed. Combining two or more pages, combining when each input document has a different number of pixels in the main scanning direction, and combining N-up mode without a memory for developing compressed image data for at least two pages Is possible.
[0034]
3: Third embodiment
3-1: Configuration
The functional configuration of the third embodiment is as shown in FIG. 5. The difference between the expansion control unit 106 in the third embodiment and the expansion control unit 106 in the second embodiment is that the compressed image input to the expansion unit 104. This is the point that the compressed image data selection signal is generated by detecting the identification data indicating the end of the compressed image data for one line of the document from the data, and is output to the code input unit 103.
[0035]
3-2: Operation
FIG. 8 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the image processing apparatus having the above-described configuration. Hereinafter, the operation of the image processing apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. In the following description, it is assumed that the image processing apparatus has the same premise as the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the image processing apparatus synthesizes image data for two pages of a document composed of M pixels × N lines, and generates image data on one page of recording paper composed of 2M pixels × N lines. It shall be.
[0036]
These originals are compressed line by line by the MH compression algorithm, stored in an external storage device in a form in which identification data indicating the end of the line is added for each compressed image line, and read from the storage device. It is assumed that each compressed image data that is output is input to the code input unit 103 without interruption.
[0037]
First, the code input unit 103 that operates based on a compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106 selects the compressed image data “Code 1” -1 of the first line of the first page of the document, This is input to the decompression unit 104. In the decompression unit 104, decompression is performed by the MH algorithm, and the decompression results are sequentially output to the data output unit 105.
[0038]
When the decompression control unit 106 detects identification data indicating the end of the first line of the first page of the document, the compressed image data selection signal from the decompression control unit 106 is switched, and the code input unit 103 that operates based on this selects the compressed image data selection signal. The compressed image data “Code (2) -1” on the first line of the second page of the document is selected, and the compressed image data is input to the decompression unit 104. The decompression unit 104 performs decompression processing in the same manner as the first line of the first page of the document, and the decompressed image data “Data 2 −1” is sequentially output to the data output unit 105. Further, when detecting the identification data indicating the end of the first line of the second page of the document, the decompression control unit 106 selects the compressed image data “Code (1) -2” of the second line of the first page of the document. With the processing described above, the output of the decompressed image data of the first line for two pages of the document is completed, and the first line of the composite image is formed on the recording paper.
Thereafter, the same processing as described above is repeated from the second line to the Nth line of the document, and finally, a composite image of 2M pixels × N lines is formed on the recording paper.
[0039]
In the third embodiment, compressed image data compressed for each line by the MH compression algorithm is used. However, the compressed image data is not limited to this, and is compressed for each block by a compression algorithm such as JPEG. May be. In the third embodiment, a case has been described in which two original pages are continuously expanded and combined in the main scanning direction on the recording paper. However, as in the first embodiment, combining and continuous expansion in the sub-scanning direction are performed. Combining 3 pages or more, combining when the number of pixels in the main scanning direction of each input document is different, and combining in N-up mode without having a memory for developing compressed image data for at least 2 pages Is possible. Further, instead of newly adding identification data, a specific code in the compressed image data may be used as identification data as it is.
[0040]
4: Fourth embodiment
4-1: Configuration
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The same reference numerals are given to the same parts as those in FIG.
In FIG. 9, a code FIFO 107, like the code FIFOs 101 and 102, is a speed at which the image processing apparatus reads compressed image data for one page from an external storage device, and an input speed of compressed image data at the code input unit 103. Adjust the speed difference between
[0041]
The decompressing unit 104 also decompresses the compressed image data compressed by the MH algorithm, a decompressor A109 that decompresses the compressed image data compressed by the JPEG-compliant compression algorithm, and the input compression. An expander selection unit 108 that selects one of the expander A and the expander B based on the compression method of the image data, and from the code input unit 103 based on the expander selection signal of the expansion control unit 106 The input compressed image data is expanded according to the compression method, and the expansion result is output to the data output unit 105.
[0042]
The decompression control unit 106 counts the number of data of the compressed image data input to the decompression unit 104, and the count value and the number K of compressed image data preset in a register in the decompression control unit 106 (one block in the document) If the two match, the document selection order information preset in the register in the expansion control unit 106 (in this embodiment, the first page of the original and the second page of the original) A compressed image data selection signal is generated based on the order of the first page and the third page of the document, and is output to the code input unit 103. Further, in order to select a decompressor corresponding to the compression method of the compressed image data input to the decompression unit 104, based on the original compression information indicating the original compression method preset in a register in the decompression control unit 106. Are generated and output to the decompression unit 104.
[0043]
4-2: Operation
Next, the operation of the image processing apparatus configured as described above will be described. However, in the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the first page of the document is compressed by a compression algorithm compliant with JPEG, the second page is compressed by the MH compression algorithm, and the third page of the document. Is compressed by a compression algorithm compliant with JPEG, and three pages of originals compressed by these two types of compression methods are combined as image data on one page of recording paper.
[0044]
Each time the compressed image data input to the decompression unit 104 is switched, the decompression control unit 106 controls to switch the decompressor so that the decompression is performed in an optimum manner based on preset document compression information. For this reason, it is possible to synthesize originals compressed by different compression methods. The writing of the decompressed image data to the block buffer in the data output unit 105 is basically performed in units of blocks. However, since the compressed image data compressed in units of block lines and the compressed image data compressed in units of lines coexist here, the decompressed image data (line data sequence) on the second page of the document is interpreted as a block data sequence as it is. If writing is performed in units of blocks, the writing uniformity is disturbed. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11A, the decompressed image data is written to the writing area of the second page of the document. Therefore, the decompressed image data is controlled to be written in units of lines. Note that the readout of the composite image from the block buffer is controlled to be read out in units of lines as shown in FIG.
[0045]
In the fourth embodiment, a case has been described in which three pages of originals compressed by two different compression methods are continuously expanded and combined in the main scanning direction on the recording paper. Combining continuously expanded in the scanning direction, combining two pages, combining four or more pages, combining documents using three or more compression methods, and when the number of pixels in the main scanning direction of each input document is different Combining, N-up mode combining that does not include a memory for developing compressed image data for at least two pages can also be realized.
[0046]
5: Fifth embodiment
5-1: Configuration
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 12, the image processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment includes code FIFOs 201 to 203 and decompression. Sections 204 to 206, a data output section 207, and a data selection section 208.
[0047]
In FIG. 12, code FIFOs 201 to 203 adjust the speed difference between the speed at which the image processing apparatus reads compressed image data for one page of the original from an external storage device and the input speed of compressed image data at each decompression unit. To do. The decompressing units 204 to 206 decompress the compressed image data input from the corresponding code FIFO to generate decompressed image data, and output the decompressed image data to the data output unit 207. The data output unit 207 selects any one of the decompressed image data from each decompression unit based on the decompressed image data selection signal from the data selection unit 208, and sends the selected decompressed image data to the data output unit 207. Output.
[0048]
The data selection unit 208 counts the number of decompressed image data output from the data output unit 207, compares the count value with the number M of image data stored in an internal register, and the two match. In this case, based on the document selection order information preset in the internal register, the data output unit 207 generates a decompressed image data selection signal so that the decompressed image data of the next document is selected. Output to the unit 207.
[0049]
5-2: Operation
Next, the operation of the image processing apparatus having the above configuration will be described.
In the following description, the compressed image data of the corresponding document page is accumulated in each code FIFO and supplied to each decompression unit. Each decompression unit decompresses the supplied compressed image data as needed, and outputs the data. If the unit 207 can input, the decompressed image data is input to the data output unit 207.
[0050]
First, the data output unit 207 that operates based on the expanded image data selection signal from the data selection unit 208 selects the expanded image data of the first line of the first page of the document, and this is output from the data output unit 207. The The data selection unit 208 counts the number of data of the decompressed image data output from the data output unit 207, compares it with the preset number of image data for one line of the original, and if they match, selects the decompressed image data. Switch signals. As a result, the decompressed image data of the first line of the second page of the document is selected by the data output unit 207 and output from the data output unit 207. Thereafter, the same processing is performed on the decompressed image data for one line of the second page of the document, and the decompressed image data of the first line of the third page of the document is output from the data output unit 207.
The above-described processing is repeated from the second line to the last line of the document, and finally all lines of the composite image are formed on the recording paper.
[0051]
In the above-described fifth embodiment, as the decompression unit that decompresses the compressed image data of each document, an optimum decompressor can be used according to the input compressed image data. Therefore, the compressed image data of each document may be compressed in block units by a compression algorithm such as JPEG, or may be compressed by an MH compression algorithm or the like. In the fifth embodiment, a case has been described in which three original pages are continuously expanded and combined in the main scanning direction on the recording paper. However, as in the first embodiment, combining and continuous expansion in the sub-scanning direction are performed. Composition of 2 pages, composition of 4 pages or more, composition when the number of pixels in the main scanning direction of each input document is different, N-up without providing a memory for developing at least two pages of compressed image data Mode synthesis is also possible.
[0052]
6: Supplement
In each of the embodiments described above, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores an operation program, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes the operation program stored in the ROM, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that is accessed by the CPU. Etc., or may be realized as a circuit in which various circuit elements are connected. In the former case, the ROM may be replaced with a rewritable nonvolatile memory so that the operation program can be easily updated.
[0053]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, from a plurality of compressed image data representing a plurality of input images, without providing a memory for developing and synthesizing a document and a rotating unit for rotating image information, Image data representing a composite image can be generated and output. Therefore, it is possible to significantly reduce the manufacturing cost of the device itself and improve the image processing efficiency.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the apparatus.
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a composite image generated by the apparatus.
FIG. 4 is a timing chart for explaining an operation in a 4-up mode in the apparatus.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a second embodiment and a third embodiment of the present invention.
6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining a block buffer in an image processing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention, where FIG. 6A is an explanatory diagram of a write operation, and FIG. 6B is an explanatory diagram of a read operation;
FIG. 7 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the apparatus.
FIG. 8 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a composite image generated by the apparatus.
11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining a block buffer in the same device, FIG. 11A is an explanatory diagram of a write operation, and FIG. 11B is an explanatory diagram of a read operation;
FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining the operation of the 2-up mode in the prior art, in which FIG. 13A is a document whose input direction is a short side direction, FIG. 13B is a document whose input direction is a long side direction, and FIG. Indicates a composite image.
FIG. 14 is a diagram for describing a composite image generated in the 4-up mode in the conventional technology.
FIG. 15 is a time chart showing an operation example in the 4-up mode in the prior art.
[Explanation of symbols]
101, 102, 107, 201-203 ... code FIFO, 103 ... code input unit, 104, 204-206 ... decompression unit, 105, 207 ... data output unit, 106 ... decompression control unit, 108 ... decompression unit selection unit, 109 ... Expander A, 110 ... Expander B, 208 ... Data selection section

Claims (9)

An image processing apparatus that outputs image data representing a composite image obtained by combining a plurality of input images in accordance with preset composite conditions,
Compressed image data input means for inputting a plurality of compressed image data representing the plurality of input images;
Decompression means for decompressing and outputting the target compressed image data;
Each time the decompression unit decompresses a predetermined amount of image data, the decompression that selects the target compressed image data from the plurality of compressed image data input by the compressed image data input unit based on the synthesis condition Control means;
Output means for sequentially outputting the image data output from the decompression means;
With
The extension means includes
An image processing apparatus comprising: a plurality of decompressors that decompress compressed image data compressed by a plurality of compression methods, and decompressing the target compressed image data by an decompressor corresponding to the target compressed image data . The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.
The decompression control unit selects the target compressed image data based on the number of data of the image data output from the decompression unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.
The decompression control unit selects the target compressed image data based on the number of pieces of compressed image data input to the decompression unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1.
The plurality of compressed image data input by the compressed image data input means includes predetermined identification data;
The decompression control unit selects the target compressed image data based on identification data in the compressed image data input to the decompression unit. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The target compressed image data selected by the decompression control means is obtained by compressing image data for a predetermined line of the corresponding input image. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The target compressed image data selected by the decompression control means is obtained by compressing image data for a predetermined block of the corresponding input image. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6 ,
The output means includes a buffer for temporarily storing the decompressed image data decompressed by the decompressing means, and outputs the image data stored in the buffer for each line of the composite image. . An image processing apparatus that outputs image data representing a composite image obtained by combining a plurality of input images in accordance with preset composite conditions,
Input means for inputting a plurality of compressed image data representing the plurality of input images;
Decompression means for independently decompressing the plurality of compressed image data input by the input means;
Output means for selectively outputting a plurality of decompression results by the decompression means as image data representing the composite image;
Selection means for determining the decompression result output by the output means based on the synthesis condition each time the decompression result output by the output means is output for the corresponding line of the input image. An image processing apparatus. An image processing apparatus having a plurality of decompressors for decompressing compressed image data compressed by a plurality of compression methods, and outputting image data representing a composite image obtained by combining a plurality of input images in accordance with preset composition conditions A processing method,
A first step in which the image processing apparatus receives a plurality of compressed image data representing the plurality of input images;
A second step in which the image processing device decompresses and outputs target compressed image data sequentially selected based on the synthesis condition from the plurality of compressed image data received in the first step;
Including
In the second step,
The image processing device switches the selection of target compressed image data based on the synthesis condition every time a predetermined amount of image data is expanded, and decompresses in accordance with the selected target compressed image data among the plurality of decompressors. Decompresses the target compressed image data
An image processing method.

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